Claridges – the dream wedding venue fit for the Queen

If you are looking for the wedding venue fit for a Queen (the Queen Elizabeth II has stayed in the hotel on numerous occasions), then Claridges is the one. This art deco luxury hotel with its stunning chandeliers, high ceilings and rich heritage has been favoured by royalty and celebrities. From Winston Churchill and Princess Diana, to Audrey Hepburn, Michael Douglas, Anne Hathaway, Kim Kardashian, Ben Affleck and Kate Moss. It has also played host to many elegant and luxurious weddings since opening in 1898. Regular visitor Christian Louboutin said: “Staying here is like being in a magical music hall. It’s perfectly staged. Everything looks fantastic.”

The Ballroom

Claridges boasts a number of beautiful event rooms that can accommodate from 20 to 240 guests. The Ballroom can fit up to 240 guests for wedding dinners. Over the years, this English Heritage-listed ballroom has played host to society weddings, state banquets and magnificent balls. The nearby Ballroom Reception with its beautiful 1930s design, marble and mirrors can be used for the drinks reception. It has the benefit of the Ballroom’s own entrance and cloakroom. Then the Mirror Room can be used for drinks or a bit (or a lot) of boogie after the wedding breakfast. If you are planning to hold the ceremony as well, the Ballroom can be transformed from a ceremony setting to a dinner setting. Experienced staff can do it in just under an hour, while your guests are drinking champagne in the Ballroom Reception. That’s what I call excellent customer service!

Drawing Room & French Salon

If your wedding party is smaller (50-70 guests), then Claridges can offer you the Drawing Room and the French Salon. The rooms can be used interchangeably. The wedding ceremony can start at the Drawing Room, that features an open fireplaces and the imposing portrait of the Lady in Blue. After the ceremony, guests can be ushered to the drinks reception in the French Salon. With original features such as art deco ironwork tassels and winged Renaissance-style cherubs, the French Salon is an elegant room. It also features a striking mural of a dancing couple, uncovered when the room was last refurbished. Then guests will be welcomed back to the Drawing Room for dinner, while the other is transformed into a dancing room.

The Chef & Choreographer

The award-winning executive chef Martyn Nail with his flair and creativity has prepared a sumptuous set menu to choose from. Martyn’s mantra is to look for the trinity of Quality, Service and Price and you cannot go far wrong… I could not agree more! In addition to a fantastic chef, Claridges can offer you the award-winning ballroom and Latin dancer Marius Caluser. Marius is Claridge’s first ever appointed choreographer-in-residence. He is available to provide first dance tuition for the couple, may they wish their ‘first dance’ to be carefully rehearsed. The introductory dance class is complimentary to any couple that chooses to get married at Claridges.

What’s More

Of course, the couple is offered a Bridal Suite for the night, where a personal concierge will make sure that romance is in the air. Expect rose petals on the bed, a champagne bottle on arrival, a bouquet of flowers and many more little surprises to make your special day even more special! The bride and groom will also benefit from a spa gift, which they can enjoy before or after the wedding day. Plus, a dedicated wedding coordinator will be assigned there to curate every detail, from stationery to entertainment, photography to flowers.

I am a lifestyle editor at Lux Afrique. I enjoy showcasing the most luxurious experiences around the world - from best hotels and restaurants, to fashion shows and jewellery exhibitions. I am based in London, but quite often my work takes to me some exotic places, like China or Mauritius.